Chicken With Coca-Cola and Lemons

Chicken with Coca-Cola and Lemons is a unique dish that combines the tangy flavor of lemons with the sweet taste of Coca-Cola. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that results in juicy, tender chicken with a slightly caramelized coating. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish will surprise and delight your taste buds.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a fun twist on traditional roasted chicken. The combination of lemon and Coca-Cola adds a sweet and tangy flavor that’s different from your usual chicken dishes. Plus, it’s easy to make with ingredients you probably already have at home. If you’re looking for something new to try, this recipe is a great choice.

How to Make Chicken With Coca-Cola and Lemons

Ingredients

Juice of 3 lemons, zest of 2 lemons
One 4½ pound chicken, butterflied
3 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Olive oil, for sautéing
1 medium onion, thickly sliced
¼ cup finely julienned ginger
3 cloves garlic, crushed and chopped
1 cup Coca-Cola
½ teaspoon white vinegar
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Instructions

In a large, rimmed dish, sprinkle the lemon juice over both sides of the chicken. Rub with the salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Cover and chill for 4 hours.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spread the chicken, skin side up, in a roasting pan. Reserve the lemon juice, diluting it with 1 tablespoon water. Cover the chicken with foil and roast for 30 minutes, basting with the lemon juice every 5 to 10 minutes.
While the chicken is roasting, cover the bottom of a medium sauté pan with a thin layer of olive oil. Place over medium heat and add the onion and ginger. Cook until the onions are soft and golden, about 8 minutes, then stir in the garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
After the chicken has cooked for 30 minutes, lower the heat to 300 degrees and remove the foil. Continue basting every 10 minutes with the Coca-Cola, until the chicken juices run clear, about 1 hour more.
Reheat the onions, adding the vinegars and 2 tablespoons of the chicken juices. Cook for 1 minute. Serve the chicken topped with the onions and pan drippings.

How to Serve Chicken With Coca-Cola and Lemons

This chicken dish pairs well with simple sides like steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Serve it hot, with the onions and pan drippings spooned over the top for extra flavor. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice on the chicken can also add a nice bright touch.

How to Store Chicken With Coca-Cola and Lemons

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 300-degree oven until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the oven will help keep the chicken from drying out.

Tips to Make Chicken With Coca-Cola and Lemons

Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours to let the flavors soak in.
Basting the chicken regularly is key to getting that caramelized, flavorful skin.
Don’t skip the step of sautéing the onions and ginger; they add a wonderful depth of flavor to the dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use diet Coca-Cola instead of regular?
Yes, you can use diet Coca-Cola, but the flavor may be slightly different since diet soda is less sweet.

2. What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
You can substitute balsamic vinegar with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for a similar tangy taste.

3. Can I cook this chicken on the grill?
While this recipe is designed for the oven, you can adapt it for the grill by using indirect heat and following the same basting process.